This Week in Texas – March 11, 2015

Let’s get to the really important news. Phil Collins is the newest Honorary Texan. Yes, that Phil Collins.

Other news is from the week is less starstruck.

Most of us woke up groggy and grumpy on Monday thanks to Day Light Savings. Rep. Dan Flynn (R-Van) is so tired of Day Light Savings that he filed a bill to exempt Texas from “springing forward” and “falling back.” The legislation to save the sleep cycles of all Texans is set for a hearing Wednesday in the House Government Transparency and Operations Committee.

Friday the 13th isn’t just an important date for the masked killer Jason; Friday, March 13th at 6pm is also the bill filing deadline at the Texas Legislature. It could induce as many screams as the horror movies.

Everyone likes a good tax cut, right? Sure, as long as you aren’t left out. Heavy hitters of the Texas business industry are concerned about the Senate’s plans for tax cuts that would only help homeowners, not businesses, with a property tax break. The House has yet to unveil its plan, but Rep. Dennis Bonnen (R-Angleton), Chairman of the House Ways & Means committee, says that it will differ broadly in its approach to making cuts.

Senate transportation funding proposal detoured? The Senate recently passed SB 5 and SJR 5, a legislative package that would dedicate a portion of the motor vehicle sales tax to transportation projects, may not be as popular in the House. House budget writers recently announced an extra $1.5 billion in state money for transportation, but have not discussed the Senate’s proposal.

Only in Austin:

For 28 years, Upper Crust has supplied the Austin community with cakes, pies, pastries, bread, and countless other baked goods. It’s the perfect place for a quick cup of coffee and quiche or a soup and sandwich lunch. They also make the best chocolate cake in town. Pick one up for the next birthday celebration!